Meghan Markle's stunning black dress has a major secret

Meghan, Duchess of Sussex visits Smart Works and is greeted by CEO of Smart Works Kate Stephens on January 10, 2019 in London. (Photo: Clodagh Kilcoyne – WPA Pool/Getty Images)

For Meghan Markle‘s first 2019 public appearance, she made sure her maternity look was on point.

Shortly after Kensington Palace announced Markle’s four patronages, the Duchess made a surprise visit to one of her patronages, Smart Works, an organization that helps provide dressing and coaching services for unemployed women with confirmed job interviews. Markle, being the royal fashionista she is, made her the perfect royal patron for the charity.

For the impromptu meeting, Markle slicked her hair back into a tight bun and wore a classic beige trench coat by Oscar de la Renta over a black maternity dress by Hatch, and carried an elegant boxy bag by Victoria Beckham. Although her outfit was largely understated, she spiced up her footwear with a pair of playful cow print PVC heels by Gianvito Rossi.

Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, arrives at Smart Works on January 10, 2019 in London. (Photo: Jeff Spicer/Getty Images)

The dress’s special secret?

It can be worn long after “Baby Sussex” has come. Hatch is a brand of fashionable maternity wear that promises to grow with you at all stages; fans of the line make the investment knowing they can wear the styles throughout their pregnancy and afterward thanks to innovative fabric and designs. The style Markle chose, The Eliza Dress, $218, is crafted from a two-way stretch cotton knit that expands (and contracts) with your body and is a favorite of fashion insiders — expecting, or not.

If you love Markle’s LBD, but are not actually pregnant like the duchess, a sheath dress is a great alternative and is extremely popular among the royal family. This classic dress is one you’ll have in your closet and pull out to wear for years to come.

Charles & Keith is a Singapore-based brand, but is quickly making a splash worldwide for their stylish and affordable (under $100) handbags. Scour the site and you’ll instantly find gems like this one.

Markle’s cow print PVC heel is a vintage style from Gianvito Rossi, but it might be a bit too bold (and pricey!) to wear on an everyday basis. If you love the PVC pump look, this black version is great for wearing all year long.